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Hospital Terms to Know

Having to visit the hospital in the event of an injury or illness can be scary for most people. Some facilities specialize in certain types of illnesses or patients. For example if you are a war veteran, the VA operates facilities where you can receive care at no charge or a low charge. There are also psychiatric facilities that specialize in mental health. Below are some terms to be familiar with in this area.

Attending Physician - The doctor with primary responsibility for a patient’s care.

Oncology - A branch of medicine that deals with the diagnosis of and therapy for cancer.

Biopsy - When a tissue sample is removed for further analysis as part of diagnosing an illness, for example when cancer is suspected.

Informed Consent - When a hospital runs a clinical trial of a new type of treatment or medication, for example a new drug related to mental illness, all participants must be informed by a doctor of all the risks and benefits.

Living Will - An advance medical directive indicating the patient’s treatment preferences and also designating a person that can make health decisions on their behalf if they become incapacitated.

Rehabilitation - The process of restoring skills, strength and mobility after an illness or injury. For example a veteran returning home from a war zone after suffering a broken leg may require physical therapy to regain normal leg functioning.

Trauma Center - A facility or portion of a larger facility that is dedicated to providing comprehensive and immediate services for those suffering trauma, as for example following a car accident or a physical assault.

Resident - A person who has a medical degree but practices under the supervision of an attending physician in order to receive more specialized training.

Most people have been to a hospital at least once in their lifetime, either as a visitor or as a patient. Hospitals are where many people go when they are sick, ill or injured and need immediate professional medical attention. Hospitals require a payment for their medical services, either through insurance or directly from the patient.
There are many types of hospitals and medical offices. There are public hospitals, which most people visit. There are also specific facilities just for veterans. These medical centers only treat the health needs of retired soldiers and veterans. There are also cancer hospitals, which handle medical cases only specifically dealing with the disease. Cancer hospitals also have facilities where doctors research possible cures and treatments. A veterinary hospital is designed for the care of animals.
Most hospitals are divided into several sections, which each designated section handling a different area of medicine. The sick and ill will be taken to an exam room. There a doctor will investigate their condition and symptoms, and then prescribe the necessary medicine. Some hospitals also have a section that is dedicated to the health care of people with mental illnesses and mental disorders. The emergency room was designed for people who have experienced some sort of trauma or serious injury. requiring immediate medical care and attention. The operating room is the part of the hospital for those who need surgery. There are also offices for those who need physical therapy. By visiting a hospital, you can guarantee that you will get the professional care that you need from trained professionals like doctors and nurses.